Hira Ali receives recognition for blending Urdu calligraphy with Chinese artistic traditions at international showcase.
Image: Gawadar Pro
A Pakistani scholar and lecturer from the University of Peshawar has been honoured at the 16th International Exhibition of Traditional Fine Arts in Shanghai, highlighting her contributions to cross-cultural artistic innovation.
Hira Ali, currently pursuing a PhD in artistic theory at the Shanghai Academy of Fine Arts, received the recognition at the exhibition’s opening ceremony, which features works from 38 countries and regions.
Her calligraphic series combines the vibrant colours of Shanghai’s urban landscape with traditional Urdu script, creating a visual fusion of South Asian and Chinese artistic styles. She described the experience as “surreal,” noting the collaborative and supportive environment for international artists.
One of her works reimagines Chinese architecture through Mughal miniature techniques, while her broader portfolio spans lacquer art, embroidery, and mixed-media pieces inspired by both Pakistani and Chinese cultural traditions.
Ali has also contributed to heritage preservation projects in Pakistan, including initiatives focused on truck art and Gandhara Buddhist heritage. She is currently working to promote lacquer art research and hopes to establish an academic association in Pakistan to support the craft’s revival.
